xi, 185 pages : 25 cm

This advanced-level textbook analyzes how social psychology conceptualizes group cohesiveness and solidarity. Since 1950 the dominant perspective on this topic has been expressed through the concept of 'group cohesiveness': a concept tied to interpersonal processes among small interactive aggregates of people. Although repeatedly challenged, this perspective still thrives. In the first part of the book, Michael Hogg describes in detail the origins and nature of this concept, showing precisely how it has been modified, simplified and ultimately reduced to interpersonal attraction. A critique of reductionism in social psychology frames his central argument that problems with the group cohesiveness concept are due to its reduction of group processes to interpersonal processes. This critique sets the scene for the second part of the book, which presents an alternative, positive conceptualization of group cohesiveness and solidarity. This new perspective centres on social identity and self-categorization theories, presenting in detail relevant current research. Hogg uses new conceptual and methodological developments in social psychology to present an account of group cohesiveness more sophisticated and more complete than those based on a traditional understanding. The book ends with an examination of implications for our understanding of phenomena such as groupthink, social loafing and group performance

Includes bibliographical references (pages 153-177) and index

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